What weather is predicted by the term VCTS in a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast?

The term VCTS in a Terminal Aerodrome Forecast indicates "vicinity thunderstorm," which specifically means that thunderstorms are expected to occur in the area surrounding the airport but not necessarily impacting the airport directly. The definition of "vicinity" typically refers to within 5 to 10 nautical miles of the airport, so this term conveys an awareness of potential storm activity that may affect operations or nearby air traffic, even if they are not directly overhead.

Other options, while mentioning thunderstorms, either specify distances beyond what is implied by "vicinity" or suggest more direct impacts that go beyond what VCTS signifies. For instance, indicating thunderstorms expected directly over the airport or within a wider range of 25 or 50 miles does not align with the specific terminology used in VCTS. Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects the meaning of the term as it pertains to forecasted weather conditions near an airport.